National Stress Awareness Day is observed annually on the first Wednesday in November. This is a day to identify and reduce the stress factors in your life.

There are many reasons for stress in the workplace. The job market is difficult and with many companies downsizing, a common concern for those affected is how they will continue to provide for their families. Another major stress factor for some may be conflicts with co-workers.

Work-life is not the only stressor. Nearly every employee balances family, home and health as well, whether they are married or not. Parents, siblings, illness, maintenance of vehicles or civic responsibilities may impact our lives.

Learning how to manage your stress takes practice, but you can -- and need to -- do it. Here are 6 ways to make it easier.

1. Exercise Working out regularly is one of the best ways to relax your body and mind. Plus, exercise will improve your mood. But you have to do it often for it to pay off.

2. Relax Your MusclesWhen you’re stressed, your muscles get tense. You can help loosen them up on your own and refresh your body by:

3. Deep BreathingStopping and taking a few deep breaths can take the pressure off you right away. You’ll be surprised how much better you feel once you get good at it. Just follow these 5 steps:1. Sit in a comfortable position with your hands in your lap and your feet on the floor. Or you can lie down.2. Close your eyes.3. Imagine yourself in a relaxing place. It can be on the beach, in a beautiful field of grass, or anywhere that gives you a peaceful feeling.4. Slowly take deep breaths in and out.5. Do this for 5 to 10 minutes at a time.

4. Eat WellEating a regular, well-balanced diet will help you feel better in general. It may also help control your moods. Your meals should be full of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, and lean protein for energy. And don’t skip any. It’s not good for you and can put you in a bad mood, which can actually increase your stress.

5. Slow DownModern life is so busy, and sometimes we just need to slow down and chill out. Look at your life and find small ways you can do that. For example

Set your watch 5 to 10 minutes ahead. That way you’ll get places a little early and avoid the stress of being late.

When you’re driving on the highway, switch to the slow lane so you can avoid road rage.

Break down big jobs into smaller ones. For example, don’t try to answer all 100 emails if you don’t have to -- just answer a few of them.

6. Take a BreakYou need to plan on some real downtime to give your mind time off from stress. If you’re a person who likes to set goals, this may be hard for you at first. But stick with it and you’ll look forward to these moments. Restful things you can do include:

Meditation

Yoga

Tai chi

Prayer

Listening to your favorite music

Spending time in nature

​Share your ideas to combat srtess using #StressAwarenessDay on social media.